North End Redevelopment Project At Union Square Park

Project Oversight

The North End Redevelopment Project is a joint venture of the Union Square Partnership and the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation.

Scope of Project

The third and final phase of this 20 year-long renovation effort involves:

Unifying the two existing playgrounds, nearly tripling its total size from 5,135 square feet to 15,307 square feet;

Repaving the public plaza and planting trees along the northern and western park perimeters;

Rehabilitating the historic Pavilion with space for Parks Department personnel in the lower level, and a seasonal use facility in the upper level; and

Creating public restrooms including men's and women's room as well as a dedicated family room with secure access from the playground.

Design Team

Architecture Research Office is the architect and Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates is the landscape architect. Levien & Company, Inc. provided the project management services through the design phase.

Cost of the Project is approximately $20 million.

Public Benefits

Streetscape improvements will transform Union Square Park's north end into a more accessible area with a new sidewalk and trees along the perimeter;

Water and electrical hook-ups will enhance the venue for farmers on Greenmarket days.

Expanded, secure and engaging playground with new equipment and seating areas for children and caregivers of all abilities;

New seasonal facility will provide added attraction to the park and revitalize the Pavilion building;

New plantings including Scholar trees, Dawn Redwood, Catalpa, Hinoki Cypress, Saucer Magnolia, Daylily, Hydrangea, Summersweet, Fothergilla and Viburnum will beautify and enhance park users experiences;

New lighting will provide added security after dark and illuminate the Pavilion and several historic monuments including Abraham Lincoln (1868, by Henry Kirke Brown) and the James Fountain (1881, by Karl Adolph Donndorf).

Copyright © 2010, NewsBlaze, Daily News

Tags: Union Square Partnership, Executive Director Jennifer Falk,